The National Pig Association’s autumn regional meetings start next month, with a strong focus on farm safety.
There will be four evening meetings, starting with Exeter on October 4, followed by Diss on October 12, Newbury on October 18 and York on October 23.
As the wider farming industry tries to get to grips with its poor record in this area, as highlighted by the most recent HSE figures, the NFU’s Tom Price will discuss how safety on pig farms can be improved to better protect staff and make pig farming a more attractive career for new entrants.
The meetings will address the ongoing attempts to target the pig sector by vegan activists and there will be an update from the NPA team on Brexit and what it could mean for the pig sector, including the various meetings NPA staff have attended with key Government Departments.
There will also be updates on antibiotic reduction targets, changes to Red Tractor guidance on space allowances and environmental permitting.
Following the ups and downs of the past few years there will also be updates from AHDB Market Intelligence on where the market is likely to go from here.
NPA chief executive Zoe Davies said: “As always, there is always a huge amount to discuss and this autumn we really want to focus on helping members help themselves to make their places of work safer. These meetings are very much a two-way discussion, also providing an ideal opportunity for you to share any issues you are facing.
“It’s also a good chance to catch up with your industry colleagues – and all meetings will begin with a hot buffet. So book your place now!”
Meeting details
South West: Wednesday, October 4 at Exeter Racecourse, Kennford, Exeter, Devon, EX6 7XS. This meeting will follow directly on from the George Vet Pig Fair from approximately 5.30pm. Attendees at the Fair are welcome to stay on.
East Anglia: Thursday, October 12, 6pm at Diss Rugby Club, Bellrope Lane, Roydon, Diss IP22 5RG
South Central: Wednesday, October 18, 6.30pm at Newbury RFC, Monks Lane, Newbury RG14 7RW
North: Monday, October 23, 6.30pm at Sandburn Hall, York YO60 7RG
Email NPA@npanet.org.uk to reserve your place.